Thursday, March 20, 2014

Maple Leaf gets $5 million from feds

The
federal government giving Maple Leaf Foods $5 million to buy fancy equipment
for its new plant in Hamilton.

The
government says it’s a “repayable investment” but gives no details about the
terms for repayment.

In
a news release, the federal agriculture department says the equipment “will
improve the company’s operating and production efficiencies while enhancing
food safety and supporting product innovation."

It’s
for a “fully-automated process that significantly improves food safety and
includes built-in features to facilitate product traceability.

“The
system is also expected to improve the shape, texture, consistency and
shelf-life of deli meat products while reducing sodium content.

“This strategic investment will boost the
competiveness of the meat sector and create opportunities for Canadian pork
producers for years to come,” the federal agriculture department says.